MAY 2013
5th - Social Studies/Math
In math, we will be studying tables/graphs, pan-balance problems, algebraic expressions, circumference of circles and area of circles. In Social Studies we will start discussion on slavery, the Civil War. the Reconstruction Period, the Union victory and the Transcontinental Railroad.
Reading/Language Arts & Science
In Reading, we are beginning the novel, Loser and continuing to work in our Storytown anthology. We are focusing on determining the author's purpose, making predictions and inferences, identifying story elements, and utilizing strategies to monitor and strengthen our reading comprehension. In addition, we will be using award-winning authors as examples of how writers use specific strategies to create their stories.
We are continuing the use of the Fundamentals of Writing series to enhance our Language Arts curriculum. We are utilizing the writing process (Collecting, Drafting, Revising, Editing, and Publishing) during our writing workshops. At each stage of the writing process, we are looking at great models of writing by authors who serve as mentors. The students are encouraged to express their creativity as they develop their own individual writing styles, and explore writing from the perspective of the reader.
As we move forward in the science curriculum, we are beginning our study of ecology and the environment. This unit is the premise for our much-anticipated Ecology Fair! Over the next few weeks, the students will be brainstorming, planning, and executing their ideas. They are excited to watch their projects come to fruition, and inspire the rest of the school to make good, earth-friendly decisions. The students are working hard and looking forward to the big day! It is an exciting time to be a 5th grader!
